Hi Mollie! Tell us a little bit about you.
What was the first type of "art" you made (paintings, digital art, pins, etc)?
I started with sticky note doodles (while I waited on hold with the previously mentioned insurance companies) and drawing in the margins of my notes at school. I realized I really, really loved it and that it brought me a lot of joy so I started taking graphic design classes in college and never looked back! My medium has always been digital, but I think that's why I love making my designs into pins because it's SO fun to physically see it in person and be able to hold your art in your hand.
When did you start designing pins, stickers and washi tape?
I started making pins in late 2017, a week after my daughter was born actually! I was feeling so cooped up and I really wanted to try some new form of art to challenge myself and stay creating. After I got my account started, people were so kind and supportive to me and it really encouraged me to try and refine and improve my art. After a year or so, I started to move into stickers and washi tape. I'm hoping to try t-shirts, patches and other fun merch soon!
You create so many cute characters. Got a favorite?
I definitely have a big soft spot for Scaredy Cat. I feel like he is a big representation of myself and my own struggles with anxiety. He and I are usually scared and cry a lot, but we still show up and try our best everyday.
I love your motivational pins. What inspired you to create those?
Oh thank you, they are definitely some of my favorites to make! I was inspired to create them as a way to combat my own negative self-talk and thought it would be wonderful if they were able to help others too. I'm so humbled they have resonated with so many people!
What's the hardest thing about making and selling pins?
I think the trickiest thing about pins is that you never really know how well a design will sell, and pins can be expensive to make. I usually send the design off and hope everything goes okay with the launch when they are released. And if a design doesn't sell well or totally bombs, I try to practice a lot of self grace and remind myself that is the nature of art. Not everything you make is going to be amazing and that's okay!
Do you have any pets?
I don't have any pets, but I have two toddlers that keep me VERY busy. I did grow up with the best dog though, she was a golden retriever and was seriously like my best friend in high school.
What's something that most people don't know about you?
Oh gosh, that's a hard one! Hmm... I actually really love to cook and am pretty good at it if I can brag on myself a little bit! I got really into baking sourdough too last year but had to stop because I apparently have no self control when it comes to fresh bread.